Important Protection for Cyclists

Caption: An aggressive driver attempting to hit a cyclist

If you have ever relied on a bicycle for transportation, you have probably been harassed in some way by angry, impatient drivers. Harassment of cyclists can take the form of nasty words, thrown objects, or in the worst cases, drivers using their cars as weapons against unprotected cyclists.

A Councilwoman in Columbia, MO is pushing for a city ordinance that will protect cyclists from this type of harassment by drivers. Although Columbia police currently have some tools at their disposal to charge drivers for aggressive conduct against cyclists, the existing laws make it very unlikely that an aggressive driver would be charged, except in the worst cases. The new proposed law would create a new legal tool to hold drivers accountable for harassment that endangers cyclists.

This type of policy helps to create a local environment that affirms the rights of cyclists and protects them from the harassment that can be a major deterrent for potential riders. This is yet another important local policy that will move your city closer to becoming a Healthy, Active, & Vibrant Community. Has your city taken this step to support cyclists?

Read more about the proposed policy:
http://www.columbiatribune.com/news/2009/mar/07/hoppe-pushes-for-more-cyclist-protection/

Although it should go without saying, we should be clear that both drivers and cyclists have a responsibility to follow the rules of the road to create an environment that is safe for all.